Boat trips are what Marmaris does best. The bay is large and sheltered, the coast to the south and west is a maze of pine-covered headlands and coves, and the Gökova Gulf to the north-west holds some of the clearest water in Turkey. Dozens of boats leave the harbour each morning. This guide helps you choose among them.
The standard day boat
The all-inclusive bay cruise is the default choice. Boats leave in the morning, make three or four swim stops in coves around the bay, serve a cooked lunch on board and return in the late afternoon. Soft drinks are normally included and some trips include alcohol. Wooden gulet-style boats are quieter and more atmospheric, while larger boats carry more passengers and often more music. Ask for the boat type, the number of passengers and the bays visited.
Pirate boats
Pirate-themed boats are a Marmaris tradition. The family versions offer games, foam parties, a slide, costumed crew and a loud, cheerful atmosphere that children love. Adult-only versions for guests over sixteen are separate and more party-like. Pick the one that matches your group, and remember that a family pirate cruise is not the place for a quiet day.
Glass-bottom boats
A glass viewing panel in the hull lets you watch fish and sea grass without getting wet. The trips are calmer and suit young children, non-swimmers and older travellers. They follow the same pattern of swim stops and lunch.
Cleopatra Island and Gökova
The longest of the classic boat days crosses the bay to Sedir Island, known as Cleopatra Island, with the ruins of Kedrai and a fine-sand beach whose access is regulated, then continues to other bays in the Gökova area. It is a full day with a bigger sense of journey, and a good choice for couples and history lovers. Ask whether the island entry fee is included and what you can do ashore.
Dalyan by boat
Some trips combine a road transfer to Dalyan with a river boat through the reeds, past the Lycian rock tombs, to Kaunos, the mud baths and Turtle Beach. These are covered in the Dalyan attractions and the day-trips guide. For a more flexible day, a private boat from Dalyan to İztuzu is available.
Diving and snorkelling
Dive centres run boat trips for beginners and certified divers, with equipment and instructors included. Non-diving companions can often join as snorkellers. Dive season runs from about April to November. Avoid flying for the period the centre advises after diving.
Private and sailing trips
A private boat gives you control over the itinerary, the pace and the stops, and is worth the extra cost for a group or a celebration. Gulet cruises of several days sail from Marmaris along the Gökova and Datça coast, with nights at anchor in quiet bays. Compare the boat, crew and included meals carefully.
Seasons and weather
Boats run mainly from April to October, and the most reliable weather is from late May to early October. In July and August, popular boats fill early. A strong wind can change the itinerary, and captains choose sheltered bays accordingly. Out of season, only a few boats run.
What to bring
Swimwear, a towel, sun cream, a hat, water shoes for rocky entries, a light layer, cash for extras, and tablets if you are prone to seasickness. Check the hotel pick-up time the evening before, and ask what drinks and activities are included, since many trips charge extra for premium drinks, kayaks or photographs.
Safety and common sense
Choose operators with clear safety equipment on board, including life jackets of the right size for children, and listen to the crew's briefing. Avoid drinking heavily before swimming, and do not dive from the boat unless the crew says it is safe. Apply sun cream regularly, even on cloudy days, as the reflection off water increases exposure. If the sea looks rough on the morning of your trip, ask the operator whether the itinerary will change.
Where the money goes
Prices vary with the boat, the season and what is included. Cheaper trips may charge extra for drinks, snorkelling gear or the island entry fee, so compare the total rather than the headline. Book through a reputable operator or your hotel rather than from touts at the quay.